Belgium Travel Guide E-Book

Captivating Travels

• Herausgeber: Captivating Travels
• Kategorie: Lebensstil
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 117

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2025

Beschreibung

Uncover Belgium's Magic With Over 130 Full-Color Images and Maps—Plus 80 QR Codes That Bring Your Trip to Life   Wander through medieval towns, taste world-famous chocolate, and soak in centuries of history. — This full-color guide is your passport to Belgium's most unforgettable experiences. Designed for curious travelers and visual explorers, it's packed with smart tips, rich visuals, and instant access to real-time info that keeps your trip smooth and stress-free. What's Inside:  - The best highlights in Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, and more.  - Charming day trips to hidden gems like  Dinant, Durbuy, and Bouillon.  - Local favorites:  Belgian waffles, rich chocolate, crispy frites,  and iconic beers.  - Seasonal must-sees and the top festivals you won't want to miss.  - Culture and customs made simple:  language tips, etiquette, and local advice   - Custom  2-, 5-, and 7-day itineraries for every kind of traveler.  - A curated list of the most Instagrammable photo spots in Belgium.  - And much, much more!    Don't Wait to Discover Belgium's Wonders Step into a world of cobbled streets, gothic spires, and irresistible cuisine. Belgium is a story waiting to be lived. Click "Add to Cart" and start planning the journey of a lifetime today. 

Leseprobe

Belgium Travel Guide

Captivating Adventures through Must-See Places, Local Culture, Belgian Landmarks, Hidden Gems, and More

Table of Contents

Title Page

Belgium Travel Guide

Introduction: Welcome to Belgium!

Chapter 1: Getting to and Around Belgium

Chapter 2: Iconic Landmarks & Must-See Sights

Chapter 3: Belgium’s Most Beautiful Natural Wonders

Chapter 4: Exploring Brussels – Belgium’s Capital

Chapter 5: Bruges – A Fairy-tale City

Chapter 6: Ghent – A Medieval Treasure

Chapter 7: Antwerp – The Diamond City

Chapter 8: Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

Chapter 9: Belgium’s Food Scene – A Culinary Journey

Chapter 10: Belgium for Adventure Seekers

Chapter 11: Day Trips & Excursions Beyond the Cities

Chapter 12: Where to Stay – Best Areas & Accommodations

Chapter 13: Belgium’s Culture, Customs & Etiquette

Chapter 14: Understanding Belgium’s Currency & Money Matters

Chapter 15: Seasonal Events & Festivities

Chapter 16: Shopping & Souvenirs

Chapter 17: Most Recommended Spots by Travelers

Chapter 18: The 20 Best Photo Spots in Belgium

Chapter 19: Belgium Itineraries – Explore at Your Own Pace

Appendix: Where to Find Key Landmarks in This Guide

© Copyright 2025- All rights reserved.

The content contained within this book may not be reproduced, duplicated, or transmitted without direct written permission from the author or the publisher.

Under no circumstances will any blame or legal responsibility be held against the publisher, or author, for any damages, reparation, or monetary loss due to the information contained within this book, either directly or indirectly.

Legal Notice:

This book is copyright protected. It is only for personal use. You cannot amend, distribute, sell, use, quote, or paraphrase any part, or the content within this book, without the consent of the author or publisher.

Disclaimer Notice:

Please note the information contained within this document is for educational and entertainment purposes only. All effort has been executed to present accurate, up-to-date, reliable, and complete information. No warranties of any kind are declared or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaging in the rendering of legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. The content within this book has been derived from various sources. Please consult a licensed professional before attempting any techniques outlined in this book.

By reading this document, the reader agrees that under no circumstances is the author responsible for any losses, direct or indirect, that are incurred as a result of the use of the information contained within this document, including, but not limited to, errors, omissions, or inaccuracies.

Disclaimer: At the time of going to print, all information in this guide was accurate; however, travelers are encouraged to verify details, prices, and schedules as they may change over time.

Introduction: Welcome to Belgium!

A snapshot of Ghent, Belgium

Bienvenue! Welkom!

Welcome to Belgium, a small but mighty country at the heart of Western Europe. Known for its storybook towns, medieval castles, world-class chocolates, and legendary beers, Belgium is a dream destination for travelers who love history, culture, and food.

Whether you’re strolling through the stunning Grand Place in Brussels, taking a boat ride through the canals of Bruges, or tasting the world’s best fries, waffles, and Trappist beers, Belgium is filled with unforgettable experiences waiting for you.

In this guide, we’ll help you explore Belgium’s top landmarks, hidden gems, and cultural traditions, giving you everything you need for an amazing adventure.

Map of Belgium

Quick Facts & History

A beautiful sunset setting in Belgium

Location: Western Europe, bordered by France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg

Capital City: Brussels

Languages: Dutch, French, and German (depending on the region)

Currency: Euro (€)

Time Zone: Central European Time (CET)

Belgium has a rich and complex history that dates back centuries. Once part of the Roman Empire, it later became a center of trade and power in medieval Europe. Today, Belgium is home to key European Union institutions, making it a key player in international politics.

Belgium is divided into three main regions:

Flanders (Dutch-speaking north)

– Home to cities such as Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp, known for stunning architecture and art.

Wallonia (French-speaking south)

– A region of rolling hills, historic towns, and beautiful castles.

Brussels (the bilingual capital region)

– A cosmopolitan city full of museums, grand squares, and European institutions.

Brussels

Why Visit Belgium?

National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg, Brussels

Fred Romero from Paris, France, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=78794359

Stunning Cities & Architecture

– Wander through medieval streets, grand cathedrals, and charming market squares.

A Food Lover’s Paradise

– Enjoy Belgian waffles, chocolate, fries, and the best beers in the world.

Rich Culture & Art Scene

– Home to Renaissance painters, comic books, and modern design.

Perfect for History Buffs

– Visit World War battlefields, medieval castles, and Gothic churches.

Compact & Easy to Explore

– You can travel between cities in under an hour.

A traditional Belgian dish of moules-frites

dennis and aimee jonez, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2795352

Best Times to Visit Belgium

Grote Markt square in Brugge

No matter when you visit Belgium, each season brings its own charm, from springtime blooms and summer festivals to autumn’s golden landscapes and winter’s festive magic.

Here are some highlights from every season that you can expect:

Spring (March–May):

Best for mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. A great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Summer (June–August):

Peak tourist season with warm weather, lively festivals, and outdoor dining. Expect bigger crowds in cities like Bruges and Brussels.

Autumn (September–November):

A fantastic time to visit for fall colors, wine festivals, and comfortable temperatures. Fewer tourists make it easier to explore.

Winter (December–February):

Perfect for magical Christmas markets, cozy cafés, and festive decorations. A great time to enjoy Belgian hot chocolate.

The Collegiate Church of St. Bartholomew in Liège, Belgium

What You Can Expect in This Guide

Are you ready to savor delicious waffles in some of Belgium’s most famous cities?

·  Complete Travel Insights – Get the best recommendations for Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, and more.

·  Hidden Gems & Local Secrets – Discover lesser-known spots most tourists miss.

·  Food & Drink Guide – Find the best waffles, fries, chocolate, and beer.

·  Full-Color Maps & Photos – Navigate easily with detailed visuals.

·  QR Codes for Instant Access – Scan QR codes to access updated travel info, interactive maps, and transit guides.

·  Accommodation & Itinerary Suggestions – Plan your stay with 3-day, 7-day, and 10-day itineraries.

·  Practical Travel Tips – Learn about local customs, currency, and essential phrases to make your trip smooth.

Belgium is a place where history meets modern charm, and every street tells a story. Get ready to explore its fairy-tale towns, savor delicious treats, and make unforgettable memories.

Your Belgian adventure starts now!

Map of Belgium

Chapter 1: Getting to and Around Belgium

Brussels Airport

Jean Housen, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=68091936

Belgium’s central location in Europe makes it one of the easiest countries to reach and explore. With its efficient transportation network, you can travel between cities in under an hour, whether by train, bus, or car. In this chapter, you’ll find everything you need to know about getting to Belgium and navigating the country with ease.

Map view of Brussels Airport

www.openstreetmap.org

Getting to Belgium

By Air: Major Airports and Airlines

Belgium has several airports, but the main international gateway is Brussels Airport (BRU), located just 12 km from the city center in the Zaventem .

Brussels Airport Information

Other key airports include:

Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL)

– Popular for budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air.

Map view of Brussels South Charleroi Airport

www.openstreetmap.org

Antwerp International Airport (ANR)

– A small airport mainly serving European destinations.

Map view of Antwerp International Airport

www.openstreetmap.org

Liège Airport (LGG)

– Focuses on cargo and some passenger flights.

Map view of Liège Airport

www.openstreetmap.org

From the airport, you can easily reach your destination by train, bus, or taxi. The train from Brussels Airport to the city center takes just 20 minutes.

By Train: High-Speed Rail Connections

Brussels-South railway station

Belgium is well-connected to major European cities via high-speed trains:

Eurostar

– Includes direct routes between Brussels and London in under 2 hours.

ICE & TGV

– High-speed options for Germany and France.

Brussels' main train hub, Bruxelles-Midi (Brussels-South), is where most international trains arrive.

By Bus: Budget-Friendly Travel

Long-distance buses like FlixBus offer affordable connections between Belgium and neighboring countries. Though slower than trains, they are a good budget option.

By Car: Driving into Belgium

If you’re road-tripping across Europe, Belgium’s highways make it easy to drive in from France, Germany, the Netherlands, or Luxembourg. Major roads include the E40 (east-west) and E19 (north-south).

Unlike some European countries, Belgium’s highways do not have tolls, except for the Liefkenshoek Tunnel in Antwerp.

Getting Around Belgium

By Train: The Best Way to Travel

Belgium’s train system is fast, efficient, and well-connected, making it the best way to explore the country. The SNCB (National Railway Company of Belgium) operates frequent trains between major cities:

Brussels to Bruges

– 1 hour

Brussels to Antwerp

– 45 minutes

Bruges to Ghent

– 25 minutes

SNCB Information

Money-Saving Tip: Get a Belgian Rail Pass for unlimited travel on domestic routes. If you’re under 26, the Youth Ticket offers huge discounts.

By Bus & Tram: Great for Local Travel

An electric bus operated by STIB/MIVB

Trougnouf (Benoit Brummer), CC BY 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=77527737

While trains are best for intercity travel, buses and trams are great for shorter distances. Public transport is run by different companies depending on the region:

STIB/MIVB (Brussels)

– Metro, buses, and trams in the capital.

De Lijn (Flanders)

– Buses and trams in cities like Antwerp and Bruges.

TEC (Wallonia)

– Bus services across the French-speaking region.

A De Lijn tram in Ghent

Vitaly Volkov/Волков Виталий Сергеевич, CC BY 2.5 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.5>, via Wikimedia Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=851260

By Bike: A Fun and Scenic Option

Belgium is a bike-friendly country, especially in cities like Ghent, Antwerp, and Bruges. Many streets have dedicated bike lanes, and rentals are widely available. Some cities offer bike-sharing programs like Blue-bike in Flanders.

Blue-bike information

By Taxi & Ride-Sharing Apps

Taxis in Belgium can be expensive, and they must be booked in advance in most cities. Instead, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are popular and often more affordable.

By Car: Do You Need One?

While renting a car is useful for exploring the countryside or Ardennes region, it’s unnecessary in major cities due to excellent public transport and limited parking.

Driving Tips:

Belgium has

strict traffic laws

, including fines for speeding and low-emission zones in

Brussels and Antwerp

.

Speed limits:

120 km/h (highways), 50 km/h (cities), 30 km/h (residential zones).

Money-Saving Tips for Transportation

·  Book train tickets early for discounts on high-speed routes.

·  Use travel passes like the Go Pass (for youth) or Rail Pass (adults) for unlimited domestic train rides.

·  Bike rentals are a cheap and scenic way to explore cities.

·  Public transport apps like SNCB, De Lijn, and TEC help you check schedules and fares easily.

Belgium’s compact size and efficient transport system make getting around quick, easy, and stress-free. Whether you choose the speed of trains, the convenience of buses, or the charm of biking, your journey through Belgium will be smooth and enjoyable.

Chapter 2: Iconic Landmarks & Must-See Sights

A scene from Brugge, Belgium

Image by Dimitris Vetsikas from Pixabay https://pixabay.com/photos/brugge-markt-square-buildings-3626776/

Belgium is home tosome of the most iconic and unique landmarks in Europe, blending medieval charm with modern flair. This chapter introduces you to the must-see sights — places that define Belgium’s heritage, creativity, and national pride. Whether you're drawn to historic squares, gothic cathedrals, castles, or futuristic architecture, these landmarks are not to be missed.

Grand Place, Brussels

The Grand Place is Brussels’ most famous attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This magnificent central square is surrounded by ornately decorated guildhalls, the Brussels Town Hall, and the King’s House (Maison du Roi), which now houses the Brussels City Museum.

Every building tells a story, with gold-trimmed facades, carved statues, and rich symbolism that reflects the city’s prosperous history as a major trade center. The square is especially magical when illuminated at night or during the Flower Carpet, a biennial event in August where thousands of begonias form intricate, colorful patterns across the cobblestones.

The Grand Place is a lively hub for festivals, open-air concerts, and holiday markets, and it’s just steps from iconic nearby sights like the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, a luxury glass-roofed arcade, and the ever-popular Manneken Pis, a small bronze statue with a big personality that is often dressed in costumes for special events and holidays.

Grote Markt information

Map view of Grote Markt

www.openstreetmap.org

Atomium, Brussels

The Atomium

Marek Śliwecki, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=117430735

Built for the 1958 World’s Fair (Expo 58), the Atomium has become one of Belgium’s most recognizable structures. Standing 102 meters tall, it represents an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times and consists of nine interconnected steel spheres.

Inside, visitors can explore science and design exhibitions, interactive displays about the building’s history, and panoramic views from the top sphere. The upper sphere also houses a restaurant with sweeping views over Brussels.

It’s an engaging stop for architecture fans, families, and anyone curious about Belgium’s post-war innovation and futuristic ambition. The nearby Mini-Europe park is also worth a visit, featuring miniature models of iconic European monuments.

Map view of Atomium, Brussels

www.openstreetmap.org

Historic Center of Bruges

The Belfry of Bruges

The historic center